Be Flood Ready: Preparing for the 2026–27 El Niño season

September 29, 2026

Two water drop characters preparing for a flood

El Niño conditions may bring unpredictable and potentially severe winter weather and flooding to Northern California this year. If you live or own a business in Santa Clara County, especially in a designated high risk flood area, it’s important to take steps now to protect your family, home, and property.

Valley Water is your flood protection partner, and we’re here to help you stay informed, prepared, and resilient throughout the rainy season.

Understand your flood risk
Knowing your flood risk is the first step toward preparedness. Visit valleywater.org/floodready to check your address, learn about flood zones in your area, and understand the types of flooding that could occur, including shallow flooding that may not seem dangerous but can still pose serious risks. Remember: never drive through standing water.

Review your flood insurance
Most flood insurance policies take 30 days to become effective, so it’s important to act before storms arrive. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, make sure you have the coverage you need well in advance.

Build your household emergency plan
Taking time now to create an emergency plan ensures your household knows what to do if flooding occurs. Consider communication plans, evacuation routes, and where you’ll store important documents and supplies.

Prepare a 3 day emergency kit
A well stocked kit can make all the difference during a disaster. Essentials include water, non perishable food, a first aid kit, medications, flashlights, extra batteries, and copies of important documents. Your emergency kit should sustain each person in your household for at least three days.

Stay connected with emergency alerts
Having accurate information at the right time is crucial. AlertSCC is the County of Santa Clara’s official emergency alert and warning system. Sign up to receive real time alerts directly to your mobile phone, landline, or email. Emergency apps can also provide timely updates and resources during a disaster.

Protect your property before a flood
There are several proactive steps you can take:
• Pick up free sandbags from Valley Water locations before storms arrive.
• Keep debris and trash out of streams to help prevent blockages and overflow.
• Speak with your city or county floodplain manager before building or making changes to your property.

How to be flood ready
Visit valleywater.org/floodready for flood preparation tips, insurance information, emergency planning resources, and more. Valley Water is committed to keeping our communities informed and empowered throughout the flood season.

Together, we can be ready, and stay safe, before the next storm hits.

Valley Water manages an integrated water resources system that includes the supply of clean, safe water, flood protection and stewardship of streams on behalf of Santa Clara County's 2 million residents. Valley Water effectively manages 10 dams and surface water reservoirs, three water treatment plants, an advanced recycled water purification center, a state-of-the-art water quality laboratory, nearly 280 acres of groundwater recharge ponds and 350 miles of waterways. We provide wholesale water and groundwater management services to local municipalities and private water retailers who deliver drinking water directly to homes and businesses in Santa Clara County.